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Cancer

A Kid Again

With chapters across the county and throughout Ohio, A Kid Again provides family adventures for families raising a child with a life-threatening condition. Adventures are held year-round at destinations like theme parks, sporting events, and museums, and are completely free. Children must be 0-20 years old with a life-threatening diagnosis such as (but not limited to) cancer, epilepsy, cystic fibrosis, spinal muscular atrophy, or congenital heart defects. They have chapters in central, northern, and southwest Ohio. Families can visit the website to enroll.
777-E Dearborn Park Lane, Columbus, Ohio 43085
(614) 797-9500
AKidAgain.org/Ohio

A Special Wish (ASW) Foundation

Enhances the quality of life for children with a life-threatening illness by granting their special wish. Children must be 0-20 years old, diagnosed with a life-threatening or terminal illness, and not already served through another wish-granting organization to qualify. A Special Wish has chapters in central, northeast, southwest, and southeast Ohio. Anyone can refer a child by completing the Refer a Child form on their website. Call the organization for additional details.
620 Taylor Station Road, Gahanna, Ohio 43230
(614) 258-3186
ASpecialWishFoundation.org/Refer-A-Child

American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Healthy Children

This website is a great source of verified health information for parents on a wide range of health topics, such as healthy living, family life, immunizations, child development, and medical conditions. They offer articles with topics including safety, disaster preparedness, fitness, school issues, dating, substance abuse, emotional wellness, psychiatric medications, grief and more. You can also use the website to find a pediatrician in your zip code. The website is produced by the American Academy of Pediatrics and all articles are written by pediatricians.
HealthyChildren.org

American Childhood Cancer Organization (ACCO)

Founded by parents of children battling cancer to advocate for children diagnosed with cancer and their families. The website has information on different types of childhood cancers, finding clinical trials, and support groups for families by state. The Digital Library has books kids and parents can read online or print at home about the cancer journey. Hero Beads are charms that can be purchased for a small fee to represent a specific treatment the child received, such as a CT scan or bone marrow transplant. Families can order free resources, including books, plushies, medical play kits, and comfort kit. Visit the website and complete the form to get started.
ACCO.org/We-Can-Help

Blood Cancer United – Ohio River Valley Region (formerly The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society)

Works to improve the quality of life for patients and families impacted by blood cancers (such as leukemia, lymphoma, myeloma). The website has important information on types of blood cancer, navigating treatment, clinical trials, financial assistance programs, local support groups, and resources for oncology professionals. Support services include a live, weekly online chat moderated by an oncology social worker and peer-to-peer support from those who have gone through similar experiences. The Information Specialist line offers support through online chat or phone Monday-Friday. The line is staffed by trained oncology social workers and nurses to help answer questions and find resources.
Ohio River Valley Region: (513) 698-2828
Information Specialists: (1-800) 955-4572
BloodCancerUnited.org/Regions/Ohio

Camp Kesem

Provides free support for children who have a parent with a cancer diagnosis. Camp Kesem is a free, overnight summer camp experience for children ages 6-18 at various locations across the country. Club Kesem offers virtual monthly meet-ups for ages 6-18. They also offer individualized, year-round support services. Camp Kesem Columbus Chapter is based at The Ohio State University. Visit the website to find additional chapter locations and to register.
Columbus Camp Kesem Address: 81300 Stewart Rd, Tippecanoe, Ohio, 44699
National Kesem Phone: (253) 753-3821
Ohio Locations: Kesem.org/Chapters/Ohio
Main Website: Kesem.org

Cancer Support Community of Central Ohio

Offers free emotional support, education and hope for people with cancer. Provides a range of cancer wellness programs and services for patients of all ages, any diagnosis, any stage and their family members. Programs include free individual, family, and play therapy; educational workshops; cooking, exercise, and art classes; and support groups. Go online to find their event calendar and attend a Newcomer Welcome Orientation to get started.
1200 Old Henderson Road, Columbus, Ohio 43220
(614) 884-4673
CancerSupportOhio.org

Casey Cares

Offers palliative programs for families with critically ill children to keep spirits high and make lasting memories. Programs include opportunities for families to enjoy local attractions and outings, surprise gifts for birthdays, new pajamas for children who are homebound or during an extended hospital stay, gift cards for grocery assistance and themed parties for Casey Cares families across the country to meet. Families who have lost a child can continue to receive services for one year and are encouraged to participate in a monthly bereavement support group. Families must complete the online application for services, including medical documentation to be completed by the child’s health care staff.
Ohio Region: 7775 Walton Parkway, New Albany, Ohio 43054
(443) 714-5004
National: (443) 568-0064
CaseyCares.org

Chapel Hill House

Provides a place for families affected by pediatric cancer to enjoy a private weekend of family time, for free. The ADA-compliant house is available to families with children in treatment for cancer or who have been in treatment within the past two years. Families can enjoy the Treehouse, Schoolhouse/Art Cabin, games, and golf course to explore the 35-acre grounds. Reservations can be made online.
Office: 3260 West Henderson Road, Columbus, Ohio 43220
(419) 957-3576
ChapelHillHouse.org

Cord Blood Banking

Check out the links below to learn more about the Cord Blood Banking and whether it is right for your family:

Do It For the Love – Music Wish Grants

Supports music therapy, research, and provides live music experiences. They provide Wish Grants for people with life-threatening illnesses or children with severe challenges (such as disabilities or trauma). Family members, close friends/colleagues, or medical professionals can nominate someone for a Wish Grant. Nominations must include diagnosis confirmation. Visit the website to apply for a Wish Grant or contact the organization.
DoItForTheLove.org

Do More Foundation

Offers financial assistance for families who need financial help due to their child’s medical needs. Includes help with utility/rent bills, meal expenses while at the hospital, gas expenses for travel to and from hospital or doctor visits, non-covered medical expenses, non-covered supplies that would aid the child in their treatment and funeral expenses related to the death of a child. Go online for additional contact information and to apply for assistance.
PO Box 1981, Pompano Beach, Florida 33061
(954) 857-9059
TheDoMoreFoundation.org

Health Information Websites

The websites below offer helpful health information from reputable sources on topics such as healthy lifestyle, diseases, prevention, and treatment.

  • CDC: Find an A-Z library on health conditions, vaccines, current disease outbreaks, and prevention.
  • Healthy Children: Information on kids health and development, parenting, and more from the American Academy of Pediatrics.
  • KidsHealth and TeensHealth: Tons of important health information throughout the lifespan from Nemours.
  • Mayo Clinic: Find symptoms, treatments, and when to see a doctor for various health conditions. They also have information on clinical trials and resources for professionals.
  • MedlinePlus: Look up drugs, supplements, medical tests, and health conditions from the National Library of Medicine.
  • Nemours: Offers information on a wide range of topics from health experts for kids, teens, and parents.
  • Oncolink: Information about various types of cancer, treatments, and support from cancer experts.
  • Safe Kids Worldwide: Find safety information and toolkits on a wide range of topics including water safety, car seats, safe infant sleep, medication safety, and more. They also publish a list of recent product recalls, parent guides to safety, and safety laws for professionals.

Imaginary Friend Society

A free short film series for kids facing cancer. The videos feature high-quality animation of imaginary friends explaining a wide range of cancer-related topics in a way kids can understand. Topics include chemotherapy, shots, surgery, help for siblings, returning to school, and more. The videos are offered in English and Spanish.
ImaginaryFriendSociety.com

Kids’ Waivers

Use this website for information on children’s Medicaid waivers and other programs for children with disabilities or medical needs. The website has detailed pages on programs in each state. They also have information on paid parent caregiving programs by state.
KidsWaivers.org/OH

LifeCare Alliance

Agency in Central Ohio with comprehensive health programs for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and families. They operate in Franklin, Champaign, Logan, Marion, and Madison counties. Individuals can be referred by a professional or refer themselves by completing the online referral form. Programs in Franklin County include:

  • Health & Wellness Programs: Free head-to-toe cancer screenings & mammograms for anyone regardless of insurance or ability to pay; programs for kids and and adults with diabetes; travel vaccine clinic; low-cost blood pressure checks, foot care, nutrition education, and wellness classes at their community wellness centers; in-home care from visiting nurses.
    Cancer Services: (614) 263-5006
    (614) 278-3130
  • IMPACT Safety: Personal safety and violence reduction class, including emotional skills and physical self-defense. This program requires a fee but need-based scholarships are available. Community programs are offered for free several times per year in Columbus, and they offer specialized options for kids, people with disabilities, women of color, and businesses.
    (614) 437-2884
  • Senior Nutrition Programs: Serves free hot meals every day at Carrie’s Cafe for seniors 60+ years old; hosts free meals for seniors at Senior Dining Center locations; home-delivered Meals-on-Wheels for seniors or medically-challenged individuals; Senior Farmers Markets for those 60+ years old and meet income guidelines.
    (614) 437-2987
  • Project Open Hand: Free nutrition program for children or adults living with HIV/AIDS. Provides access to hot meals at Carrie’s Cafe, one-on-one nutrition counseling, home-delivered meals, and emergency meal assistance.
    (614) 437-2854

Administrative Office, Travel Vaccines & Wellness Services: 1699 West Mound Street, Columbus, Ohio 43223
Carrie’s Cafe & Senior Nutrition Programs: 670 Harmon Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43223
(614) 278-3130
LifecareAlliance.org/Programs

Livestrong

Provides resources and advocacy for those affected by cancer, including patients, loved ones, friends, healthcare professionals and caregivers. The website resource center has helpful information for patients, survivors, and loved ones on topics from cancer basics to lifestyle to navigating health insurance. The YouTube channel has free CancerFit training videos led by personal trainers certified in exercise oncology, to help survivors rebuild strength and confidence after treatment.
General Inquires: (877) 236-8820
Livestrong.org/Resources

Make A Wish Foundation of Ohio, Kentucky & Indiana

Grants wishes for children diagnosed with critical illnesses. Children must be between the ages of 2-18 and not have received a wish from another wish-granting organization. Parents, family members, and professionals can refer a child by completing the form on their website.

  • Central Ohio and Chapter Headquarters: 2545 Farmers Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43235
    (614) 923-0555
  • Northern Ohio: 6060 Rockside Woods Boulevard, Independence, Ohio 44131
    (216) 241-3670
  • Southern Ohio: 4500 Cooper Road, Cincinnati, Ohio 45242
    (513) 745-9474

Chapter website: Wish.org/OKI
National website: Wish.org

Midwest Genetics Network (MGN)

Works with patients and healthcare providers to help improve access to genetic services for medically underserved populations and those with genetic conditions. Use the Find a Genetic Service page on their website to search for care providers by zip code. The Journey Through Diagnosis website and app provides a detailed guide for families on coping with emotions related to a genetic diagnosis, accessing medical care and support services, navigating insurance, and more.
Journey.MidwestGenetics.org

National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD)

Helps individuals and families impacted by rare diseases and provides information in English and Spanish. Use the State Resource Center to find programs by state. They have several financial assistance programs to help cover costs of life-saving medication, caregiver aid or respite care, and educational support. The NORD Support Helpline offers help accessing programs from an Information and Resource Services team member. They also have information on joining a clinical trial or study.
NORD Support Helpline: (800) 999-6673
Español: (844) 259-7178
RareDiseases.org

Nationwide Children’s Hospital (NCH) Fertility & Reproductive Health Program

Supports patients who may be at risk for long-term fertility or reproductive issues due to medical conditions or treatments. Services include education, counseling, and fertility preservation options.
700 Children’s Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 722-8870
Nationwidechildrens.org/Fertility-Reproductive-Health

Nationwide Children’s Hospital (NCH) Health Information & Helping Hands

Offers educational materials for parents and caregivers from pediatric experts. Helping Hands are easy-to-read articles on topics including health conditions, caring for medical equipment at home, behavior support, medical tests, and caring for newborns. Visit the Conditions We Treat page for even more information on health conditions A-Z and how to get treatment.
Helping Hands: NationwideChildrens.org/Helping-Hands
Conditions We Treat: NationwideChildrens.org/Conditions

Nationwide Children’s Hospital (NCH) Hematology, Oncology & Blood & Marrow Transplant (BMT) Clinic

Provides diagnosis, treatment and long-term management for pediatric and adolescent patients with cancer and blood disorders. Services include psychosocial support, blood and bone marrow transplant, hematology, oncology, neuro-oncology, research, and clinical trials. Visit the website and complete the Speak With Our Team form to get started.
700 Children’s Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43205
NationwideChildrens.org/Hematology-Oncology-BMT

Nationwide Children’s Hospital (NCH) Homecare

Provides a full range of homecare services to Central Ohio children of all ages, from newborns through young adults. Homecare offers the following areas of service:

  • Infusion Pharmacy
  • Pediatric Home Medical Equipment (includes aerosol equipment, wheelchairs and ambulatory supplies, blood pressure kits, apnea monitors, breast pumps, wound care, and more.)
  • Intermittent (Short-Term) Nursing and Private Duty (Long-Term) Nursing
  • Skilled Therapy Services (occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech and language therapy)
  • Hospice and Home-Based Palliative Care services for children with life-limiting illnesses

255 East Main Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 355-1100
NationwideChildrens.org/Homecare

Nellie’s Champions for Kids (NC4K)

Offers support for Ohio families impacted by a pediatric cancer diagnosis. They offer financial support for families to use towards rent or mortgage, utility bills, gas, or groceries. They also offer help with creating customized family experiences, care packages, and host fun events throughout the year. Families must register as a NC4K family to receive services, registration is free. Visit the website to register and complete a help request form.
374 Morrison Road, Columbus, Ohio 43213
(614) 300-3995
NC4K.org

NMDP (formerly Be The Match)

Advances treatment and research for life-threatening blood cancers. Anyone ages 18-40 can join their online donor registry to potentially save a life through bone marrow transplant or cord blood donation. The website has information on the transplant process, finding a donor, navigating treatment decisions, caregiver resources, and more. The NMDP Patient Support Center Navigators can help with accessing financial help and other resources, in English and Español.
Patient Support Center: (1-888) 999-6743
NMDP.org

Oracle Health Foundation Pediatric Grants

Provides financial grants to help cover costs related to children’s healthcare needs. Grants are provided for clinical costs, equipment costs, displacement, or vehicle modification. Examples of expenses covered include lodging and transportation related to a child’s care, clinical procedures, medicine, care devices/medical equipment, and assistive equipment. The grant recipient must be 21 years of age or younger, be under the care of a physician, and have no existing insurance coverage for the requested expenses. Families may request funds once per 12 months, with a maximum of three times in a child’s lifetime. Visit the website to complete an application.
OracleHealthFoundation.org/Pediatric-Grants

Patches of Light

Assists families with critically and terminally ill children so they can remain together during hospitalizations and treatments. They award funding to pay for past due mortgages, rent, and utilities. Applications for assistance must be completed through the child’s medical team. Social Workers may also apply for HUG Bags care packages for children at home or in the hospital. Visit their website for eligibility requirements and program details.
Office: 3972 Brown Park Drive, Hilliard, Ohio 42026
Mailing Address: PO Box 153, Hilliard, Ohio 43026
(614) 946-7544
patchesoflight.org

Pink Ribbon Girls

Provides free meals, transportation to appointments, housecleaning, and peer support for those fighting breast and gynecological cancers. They serve patients with any stage of cancer with no age or income restrictions. In Ohio, they serve the Dayton, Columbus, and Cincinnati areas. Visit the website to Request Services.
350 Huls Drive, Dayton, Ohio 45315
(877) 269-5367
pinkribbongood.org/services-programs

Ronald McDonald House Resource Link (Formerly Red Treehouse)

Online resource directory supporting families and children with life challenges, disabilities, and healthcare needs from prenatal to age 25. The website helps families find resources such as special education, legal support, financial support for rare diseases, and more. Users can search for resources by need or medical condition.
RonaldMcDonaldHouseResourceLink.org

The COC – Cancer Option Collaborative

The Cancer Option Collaborative (COC) serves cancer patients who are actively in treatment. They provide emotional support and financial assistance for men, women, and children battling cancer. Call or go online to contact the organization and request support.
1347 Worthington Woods Boulevard, Columbus, Ohio 43085
(614) 212-4131
thecoccares.org

UnitedHealthcare Children’s Foundation (UHCCF)

Provides medical grants for families to pay for healthcare services related to a major medical condition that are not covered by their family’s insurance plan. Children must be 16 years old or younger, be a U.S. citizen, and have coverage through a commercial health plan to qualify for a grant. Families must meet income eligibility requirements. Applications must be submitted on a computer, not phone or tablet. Visit the website for a full list of requirements and for application instructions.
(855) 698-4223
UHCCF.org

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